It’s just a few days away from September. September has always been a month of transition for me. As a parent and former classroom teacher, when September rolls around, it signifies new beginnings:

• New school year
• New season (fall is one of my favorites) and
• New opportunities.

The last month has been filled with new opportunities for me, some of which I was looking forward to experiencing, and others were totally unexpected. Navigating expected and unexpected opportunities is all about reframing the experience, and often, the most unexpected ones hold the greatest potential for growth. 

Yesterday, I was planning to write this newsletter, but then I needed to take a sick family member to the clinic. My day went in a totally different direction, so much so that I didn’t even open my computer. 

Often, when faced with unexpected events and unable to accomplish my “to-do” list, my thoughts would spin out of control. I would feel anxious, frustrated, and irritated with the situations, which the other person would feel. 

However, what truly helped me stay calm when I didn’t accomplish everything I had planned yesterday was a reminder to be gentle with myself and remember that it’s okay to have days when things don’t go as expected. I stopped, I breathed, and I asked myself, “What is the opportunity here?”

This is the opportunity to:

• Helps a sick family member
• Stop and breathe
• Consider my priorities
• Lean into what I value
• Create connection, care, and love

I did this reframe throughout the day, keeping my mind in the present and letting the person I was with know that I cared. This act of being present and caring is not only a personal value but also a professional one that can greatly impact those around us. 

As leaders in your school or organization and role models for families, children, and youth, your role is crucial. You always have an ongoing “to-do” list that can sometimes get in the way of opportunities for connection, caring, and being present. 

Every day brings a new set of expected and unexpected opportunities. I hope you take the time to stop, breathe, and ask yourself, “What is the opportunity here?”

Wishing you the ability to see all the opportunities that lie ahead in the new month!

Sign up for the newsletter to receive more strategies and reflections that support your leadership, well-being, and ability to see opportunities in every day.